Struggling with limp or oily hair? This homemade Panama wood shampoo delivers soft, supple results naturally.
It's an economical, chemical-free option I've personally tested, ideal for oily hair types.
The recipe is straightforward and effective—here's how I made it.

- 1 tablespoon Panama wood chips
- 1 liter water
- 500 mg xanthan gum
- 10 drops true lavender essential oil
- 60 ml grapefruit seed extract (preservative)
1. Pour 1 liter of water into a saucepan.
2. Add 1 tablespoon Panama wood chips.
3. Boil for 10 minutes.
4. Let infuse for 2 hours.
5. Strain the liquid.
6. Stir in 500 mg xanthan gum.
7. Whisk vigorously, ideally with an electric mixer.
8. Add 10 drops true lavender essential oil.
9. Incorporate 60 ml grapefruit seed extract as a natural preservative.
10. Whisk again until smooth.
11. Transfer to a clean bottle.
Your gentle, natural Panama wood shampoo is ready! It's mild enough for daily use and lasts up to 15 days when stored properly.
Panama wood also works great in an anti-dandruff shampoo formula.
After testing this recipe, I'm pleased with the outcome: my hair feels soft, clean, and bouncy.
That said, it performs similarly to my go-to honey shampoo. Given the importation and cultivation challenges, I've opted for local alternatives with comparable results and a lower carbon footprint.